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Multitool Reviews: Field & Stream Tests Four Multitools from Gerber, Leatherman, SOG, and Buck Knives
Multitool Reviews: Field & Stream Tests Four Multitools from Gerber, Leatherman, SOG, and Buck Knives
THE LOWDOWN Maintaining its reputation as an innovator in the category, Leatherman debuts removable wire-cutter blades (additional inserts sold separately) and its strongest pliers yet with the 300. At 9.6 ounces, this was the heftiest of the group.
With three first-place finishes, the Super Tool lived up to its name, scoring high on all counts. Everyone was a fan of the replaceable wire cutter, and the grip was considered one of the most comfortable. This was the “best buy” out of all the tools tested, said Koonce.
HITS “The crimper is extremely useful for making leaders.” —Buonanno
MISSES “The knife blades and saw need to be accessible without opening the pliers.”—Lauber
Photo by Dan Saelinger
Additional Info
Thanks to a trend toward lighter, more ergonomic handles and even tougher components, multitools are becoming more practical to carry in the field—or on the water. We asked four manufacturers to submit their latest sheath-style model, then had our test panel put them to work. Tools were evaluated on construction and design, performance and durability. Here’s how they handled.
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0% of0 votesStake this basic decoy into the ground and turn it on to provide a visual target for predators.
$22 -
0% of0 votesA shaking Furry Critter with a real raccoon tail, or a Lil’ Rabbit with real fur, draws varmints to this lightweight, battery-powered unit.
$120 -
0% of0 votesEquipped with an open circle and bullet-drop compensating reticle, this scope has an antireflective honeycombed screen that eliminates game-spooking glare.
$260 -330 -
0% of0 votesExcellent light transmission, fully multicoated scratch-resistant lenses, bombproof waterproofing, and a rangefinding reticle make this scope suitable for any conditions.
$1600 -
0% of0 votesWaterproof and scent eliminating, this jacket comes with a removable, moisture-wicking liner and a zip-off hood.
$135
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Reviews (18)
Excellent tool. I have given this particular tool to my huting freinds and after many, many years I still use my original Basic Leatherman Tool. We both utilize them every day as the tools on it are very useful as electrician's tools too.
This tool is worth every penny of the $84.
I have 3 Waves now and a couple of other multi-tools from other companies. In my book Leatherman rules. I will probably get this one soon.
I'm a big Leatherman fan also - I've never had any problems with any of their tools - I have two Wave's and one Supertool.
I still like my SOG better. More power in the pliers.
I use the wave and the crunch. Surprising how often a vice grip can come in handy.
A good multi tool is like a good bird dog. Can't replace it.
this is a good multitool my dad and i both have one light and come with a convenient cace
I have a Wave and a Kick, bein' one o' those geek girls who have to tinker with everything. I also have a Gerber reaction plier multitool. I like that the Wave is all steel and that the knife blades are accessable from the tool when closed, and I use the file a lot! I like the diamond side, but wonder if blades are replaceable?
The Gerber has great steel and all tools lock but the lock is plastic and I'd rather have an all metal tool. Also the knife blade on the Gerber is only accessable when the tool is open and it is half serrated. I don't like half serrated blades much. the Wave gives you a choice of clip point or serrated blade.
One opinion, don't even waste a dollar on a cheap multitool, quality multitools are life savers, cheap pieces o'crayap will fold on yer fingers and hurt you.$5 multitools will always cost you a lot more than $5 in the long run. (I wanna try a SOG tool).
I have a Leatherman and it is sure handy to have with you when you need it.
More people would like to see tester Butler's comments in their entirety.
i have this knife and it has saved me countless times while hunting and i love it cause i got my named engraved in it
I think 84.00 is a little pricey. I use the Gerber with no trouble ever and a lot loss money needed.
i have to say that this is one of the best leathermans madei have one and it is worth every penny i take it everywhere and can pretty do much anything i need in the woods i give it a two thumbs up it is well worth the money
Of the three multi-tools I own this one is far and away the best
I never leave the house with out it. I even have one in both our trucks. I did break the saw on mine and they replaced it very fast.
Get a real Leatherman. I have a Kick, and it has every tool I need. I was given cheap (made in China) knockoff as gift, and it stays at the bottom of my toolbox never to see the light of day.
Leatherman has been a trusted name for a long time, mine goes with me on every fishing trip.
I have a Blast and its 7 years old, and has never had any problems and I wear it 24-7 it gets used for cleaning deer, cutting wire square bales, electric wires, and the like.
Post a Review
Excellent tool. I have given this particular tool to my huting freinds and after many, many years I still use my original Basic Leatherman Tool. We both utilize them every day as the tools on it are very useful as electrician's tools too.
This tool is worth every penny of the $84.
I have 3 Waves now and a couple of other multi-tools from other companies. In my book Leatherman rules. I will probably get this one soon.
A good multi tool is like a good bird dog. Can't replace it.
I have a Wave and a Kick, bein' one o' those geek girls who have to tinker with everything. I also have a Gerber reaction plier multitool. I like that the Wave is all steel and that the knife blades are accessable from the tool when closed, and I use the file a lot! I like the diamond side, but wonder if blades are replaceable?
The Gerber has great steel and all tools lock but the lock is plastic and I'd rather have an all metal tool. Also the knife blade on the Gerber is only accessable when the tool is open and it is half serrated. I don't like half serrated blades much. the Wave gives you a choice of clip point or serrated blade.
One opinion, don't even waste a dollar on a cheap multitool, quality multitools are life savers, cheap pieces o'crayap will fold on yer fingers and hurt you.$5 multitools will always cost you a lot more than $5 in the long run. (I wanna try a SOG tool).
I have a Leatherman and it is sure handy to have with you when you need it.
I'm a big Leatherman fan also - I've never had any problems with any of their tools - I have two Wave's and one Supertool.
I still like my SOG better. More power in the pliers.
I use the wave and the crunch. Surprising how often a vice grip can come in handy.
this is a good multitool my dad and i both have one light and come with a convenient cace
More people would like to see tester Butler's comments in their entirety.
Of the three multi-tools I own this one is far and away the best
Get a real Leatherman. I have a Kick, and it has every tool I need. I was given cheap (made in China) knockoff as gift, and it stays at the bottom of my toolbox never to see the light of day.
i have this knife and it has saved me countless times while hunting and i love it cause i got my named engraved in it
I think 84.00 is a little pricey. I use the Gerber with no trouble ever and a lot loss money needed.
i have to say that this is one of the best leathermans madei have one and it is worth every penny i take it everywhere and can pretty do much anything i need in the woods i give it a two thumbs up it is well worth the money
I never leave the house with out it. I even have one in both our trucks. I did break the saw on mine and they replaced it very fast.
Leatherman has been a trusted name for a long time, mine goes with me on every fishing trip.
I have a Blast and its 7 years old, and has never had any problems and I wear it 24-7 it gets used for cleaning deer, cutting wire square bales, electric wires, and the like.
Post a Review